Musicians are paying tribute to Grammy-winning songwriter Talley Riley after he was identified as the victim of a fatal stabbing in London last week.
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Riley, whose real name is Mark Olabiyi, was one of two people stabbed in the West Ham area of London on Friday, the Metropolitan Police said. Authorities identified him in a press release Sunday that included a statement from his family.
“Mark was a beloved son, brother, uncle and friend,” his family said in a statement. “He brought love, light and joy to our family and everyone who knew him. We will always cherish his kindness, beautiful spirit and incredible talent.”
Riley, 35, was a prolific songwriter with credits on singles by Britney Spears, Dua Lipa, Iggy Azalea, Jason Derulo and Tinie Tempah. He produced “Lights On” with HER, which appeared on her Grammy-winning 2017 album.
Riley’s brother, producer Scribbs Riley, posted a touching tribute on Instagram with a photo of a merry-go-round. He said of his last conversation with his brother, “about the future, staying positive, and all the things we still have to do.”
Scribbs Riley thanked those who reached out and said the “outpouring of love” following Riley’s death symbolized the impact Riley had on others.
“He had the purest heart of anyone I have ever known,” Scribbs Riley wrote. “He loved deeply, gave generously, and touched countless lives through his talent, kindness and spirit.”
A number of celebrities, including Stormzy and Leigh-Anne Pinnock, left condolences on the post.
In a comment on the post, British singer and producer Camille said she was heartbroken and said: “This is not fair.”
“I can’t believe he’s gone,” she wrote. “Every time I saw him, he encouraged me, encouraged me, improvised with me, and reminded me why I sing and why I create. I’m so grateful to have experienced that friendship.”
Three people have been arrested in the murder investigation into Riley’s death. Police have not identified the suspects, but say they are a 24-year-old man, a 27-year-old man, and a 25-year-old woman.
The other man who was stabbed is expected to recover.
Detective Inspector Joanna Yorke, who is leading the investigation, urged anyone who may have been in the area at the time of the stabbing to contact police.
“In particular, we would like to hear from anyone who has CCTV or other footage from the morning of the incident that may assist our investigation,” York said.
